The episode of the environmental series “Spiti sti Fysi” (17/12/2023) of CyBC-1 was dedicated to the actions of the KyklOIKOdromio and specifically to "Circular Economy Actions for All". We would like to express our gratitude to CyBC-1 for the screening, all those who worked for the shooting of the episode.
The "Circular Economy Actions for All" was funded by the U-SOLVE (ENI CBC MED) programme, with a small amount towards the initial start-up costs. Thus, the first "Library of Things" (https://circularlibraryforall.org/), is located at 16-18 Liasidou Street in the walled city of Nicosia and is operated voluntarily by the KyklOIKOdromio. At the same time, the "Online Platform" for the exchange, purchase, sell and donation of used objects (www.circularforall.org) was developed for the first time in Cyprus. The actions are supported by the Municipality of Strovolos.
The "Library of Things", encourages sharing and sustainability by providing access to a wide range of objects that people may need only occasionally. This concept aims to reduce consumption, promote collaborative consumption and build a sense of community. Libraries of objects have gained popularity in cities and communities around the world as a way of promoting sustainability, community engagement and resource sharing. They contribute to a more collaborative and less resource-intensive lifestyle. The aim is to promote a circular economy and reduce overconsumption and the accumulation of items we do not use. It is based on the principle of "borrowing rather than buying" and contributes to reducing environmental impact. These items can be anything and generally include DIY tools, garden machinery, kitchen appliances, camping equipment, event equipment and general useful household items.
In addition, through the "Online Platform for exchanging, buying, selling and donating used items", we can prevent the purchase of new products and reduce waste for discarded products even if there is still a demand for them from other users. At the same time, the platform highlights repair/repair centres so that they can be highlighted, become known to the general public and promote the extension of the lifespan of products through their repair.
Sharing or exchanging assets may not be a new idea, but it is an integral part of the transition to a more circular economy, where collaboration creates stable, secure, and open communication. This action is in line with the new policies adopted to address the challenges of the circular economy and in particular in the management of urban waste, in particular the new Action Plan for the Circular Economy adopted in March 2020 by the European Commission, which is one of the main building blocks of the European Green Deal.
